Military Helmet Snail

Neritina pulligera, also known as the Military Helmet Snail, Black Helmet Snail or Steel Helmet Snail, is a freshwater and brackish water snail that is native to the coasts of the Indo-Pacific and lives there primarily in fast-flowing rivers. Not only does its attractive-looking, dark shell make the Military Helmet Snail, which can grow up to 3cm in size, a sought-after aquarium resident, but also the fact that it is one of the best algae eaters you can have in your aquarium.

Care in the aquarium

As long as the basic needs of this nerite snail are taken into account, it is easy to care for. Due to its small size, it can be kept in aquariums starting at 20 liters. As with most species of snails, medium to hard water is ideal, as the shell can be damaged if the water is too soft. Although extremely peaceful, the Military Helmet Snail is very active. It spends the whole day eating algae and is particularly suitable for fighting algae in the nano aquarium. The Military Helmet Snail, like all nerite snails, should not be placed in new tanks, but only in well-established tanks.

Feeding

Like all nerite snails, the Military Helmet Snail is limnivorous, i.e. feeds on growth in the form of algae and bacterial films. Supplementary feeding is usually only necessary if the snail does not have enough biofilm in the aquarium. Spirulina and chlorella are ideal as feed.

Sexual characteristics and breeding